Ukrainian officials report the first clash between North Korean and Ukrainian troops, with Defence Minister Rustem Umerov confirming a small group of North Korean soldiers was attacked. President Zelensky warns this could lead to increased global instability. South Korea claims there was no direct combat, but tensions are rising as North Korean troops are seen in the Kursk region. Analysts suggest North Korea may receive military technology from Russia in exchange for troop support, while Russia prepares to ratify a mutual defense treaty with North Korea.